RCC Cardinal Koch: Ecumenism is an instrument of peace and unity for society

Cardinal Kurt Koch, Prefect of the Dicastery for Promoting Christian Unity, emphasized the «vital role» of ecumenism as a means of achieving peace and cohesion in contemporary society. His statements came in the context of the Week of Prayers for Christian Unity, which is celebrated annually from January 18 to 25. The cardinal emphasized that if Christianity itself is divided, it cannot serve as an effective beacon for a society facing divisions.

According to Vatican News, Cardinal Koch elaborated in his interview on the profound meaning of the Christian mission to seek unity. He referred to Pope Leo XIV’s call for joint efforts to achieve unity and commitment to universal peace, emphasizing that these aspirations must go «hand in hand.» «Ecumenism can help society if it does not reflect the divisions of society, but is itself a sign of unity,» the cardinal explained. In a world full of opposing currents, Christians are called to live «in the same Spirit» despite diversity. «If Christianity itself is a disparate bunch, it cannot offer very much to society,» Koch added.

Reflecting on the upcoming 500th anniversary of the Augsburg Confession in 2030, Cardinal Koch cautioned against setting hard deadlines for ecumenical efforts. «In ecumenism I do not give deadlines. Deadlines are set by the Holy Spirit, not by us,» he stated. However, he emphasized that 2030 remains an important «point for reflection,» providing an opportunity to rethink ways to overcome Christian divisions. Cardinal Koch also quoted theologian Wolfhart Pannenberg, for whom the division of the Church represented a «failure» of the Reformation, since Martin Luther’s original goal was the renewal of all Christianity. «Jesus wanted one Church, not many Churches,» the cardinal summarized.

Cardinal Koch concluded by emphasizing the continuing relevance of the Council of Nicaea, whose 1700th anniversary was recently celebrated. He stated that true unity can only be found in our common faith. «The challenge of Nicea remains relevant,» he concluded.

It is worth noting that the Patriarchate of Constantinople recently organized the annual «Ecumenical Prayer» for the unity of Christians in Istanbul. The event, which took place on January 17, 2026 at the Cathedral of the Entrance of the Blessed Virgin Mary into the Temple of the Highly Revered Community of Stavrodromi, brought together representatives of various Christian denominations and communities in the city, emphasizing the desire for unity in faith.